Late mother and close friend inspire Maghera native to record debut album

Maghera native John O'Connor has spoken of how his late mother and a close friend inspired him to record his debut album 'Down Memory Lane – My Way'.

A heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Rosella O'Connor, the 16 track album showcases John's personal renditions of iconic songs by renowned artists such as Elvis, Frank Sinatra and Neil Diamond.

The 77 year-old, who now lives in Derry, has credited his late mother, Rosella, and his close friend, fellow Maghera man and estate agent John Burns, with giving him the encouragement to record the CD.

Mr O'Connor, who comes from a family of eight children, said he was 'blessed with having a wonderful mother who showered us with genuine love'.

“This love would undoubtedly serve us to overcome the trials and tribulations and help us to look on the bright side of life regardless. Mother may not be with us anymore but her memory lives on within us forever,” said John.

ABOVE: John pictured with his late mother, Rosella.

The south Derry man's passion for music was ignited when he began singing at the age of eight.

By the age of ten he was performing on stage and by 16 years-old he landed a leading role in pantomime.

Over the years, John became known for his authentic renditions of “My Way” and “Isle of Innisfree”, bringing his own warmth and soul to each note.

However his singing took a back seat as he pursued a successful career in the licensed trade, excelling to the senior position of General Manager with Diageo, the largest drinks company in the world.

John's heart always belonged to music however, and in recent years the desire to record an album grew stronger.

“I've always had this burning desire to do a recording somewhere along the line and it has now happened,” said John.

“John Burns, being a semi professional singer, song-writer and composer was instrumental in directing me to the right people to enable me to complete my recordings.

“Without his involvement I would not have been able to produce such a classic album.”

As soon as the CD's were completed, John was delighted to present Mr Burns with the first copy of his album.

“It was terrific to be able to present John with the first CD and he was over the moon because he wasn't expecting anything like it,” John continued.

“I'm just one of those men that if someone does me a good turn, I believe in doing something back in return.”

Mr O'Connor says he is delighted with how the album turned out.

“I'm 77 years of age, I'm kind of old school, so I picked the songs that I kind of grew up with – it starts off with Jim Reeves, then my good friend Charlie Landsborough and then you have a couple of Elvis Presley numbers in there. A song by Kenny Rodgers, another favourite singer of mine in the past, is included. There is a whole combination of artists. I also have Frank Sinatra's 'My Way', but it's 'My Way' sang my way, totally different to him.”

John is currently in the process of completing another lifelong ambition - his autobiography.

Set to be published in Spring 2025, it will be launched by actor Liam Neeson, and John promises it is 'a compelling story' which he looks forward to sharing.

For more information on John's music or to purchase his CD, visit johnoconnormusic.co.uk